Welcome to all those taking part in the “Canadian Stories: Our Shared Experience Over 150 Years” conference.

Diversity is one of our country’s greatest strengths. This diversity—the many cultures, backgrounds and perspectives reflected in our communities—continues to enrich and inspire us. This year, as we mark Canada 150, we have a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the people and cultures that have helped make Canada what it is today, as we look to our shared future with hope and optimism.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, I would like to thank the Armenian National Committee of Canada and the Holodomor Research and Education Consortium for making this important conference possible. I wish all participants a productive and enjoyable conference.